Take Precaution Before Use of Cell Phone Signal Boosters

Published, May 1, 2013

Recent changes in Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations governing signal boosters enable the sale of certain types of these boosters within the United States. Signal boosters are devices that can improve cell phone coverage in areas where they do not get a good signal.

Navy and Marine Corps organizations considering these devices are reminded that FCC regulations only apply within the United States and its Possessions (US&P). Operations outside the US&P are regulated by host nation agreements that may not permit these signal boosters. Also, using signal boosters aboard naval ships, aircraft and installations requires special consideration for electromagnetic environmental effects. Other requirements, such as the completion of a spectrum supportability risk assessment and registering technical parameters in the Equipment Location-Certification Information Database may also apply. The electromagnetic spectrum is a dynamic environment.

Before purchasing any radio frequency spectrum dependent device, Department of the Navy personnel are reminded to consult with local spectrum management or the Navy Marine Corps Spectrum Center at navyspectrum.fct@navy.mil.

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